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Parkinson's disease patient Edson Salete, 78, drinks water with the help of her daughter Ana Carolina, 33, both residents of the region of Sao Paulo state that depends on the Cantareira water system, as the eighth-month rationing of water continues as a result of a record drought, in Itu October 27, 2014. REUTERS/Nacho Doce

A new study by the researchers at the Montreal Neurological Institute and Hospital -The Neuro, McGill University and the Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre revealed that the dance form, tango, can be beneficial for those who are at certain stages in the development of Parkinson’s disease (PD). The study analysed the change in motor abilities following a 12-week tango course. Since most PD patients suffer from motor dysfunction, which include tremor, rigidity and gait dysfunction, researchers were keen to understand how a physical activity like tango could benefit the patients.

The study is the first of its kind as it takes into account the effects of the dance form on non motor symptoms as well. This includes depression, fatigue and cognitive degeneration. For the study, 40 idiopathic Parkinson’s patients, both men and women, were taken from the Movement Disorders Clinics of the McGill University Health Centre. The patients were made to take part in classes with two professional dance teachers. Dr. Silvia Rios Romenets, lead researcher in the study with a special interest in Parkinson's disease and dance therapy, explained that physical activity lowers the risk of developing PD.

Dr. Rios Romenets, a clinical research fellow at the Movement Disorders Clinics at The Neuro and Montreal General Hospital, described the positive effects seen among the patients after the tango course. There were improved functional mobility, balance, reduced fatigue and better cognitive functions. The dance form involved consciously moving forward and backward and required the use of one's memory, multitasking and control of attention, the researchers state in the press release. Hence, this allows the patients to overcome walking difficulties and makes their daily routine simpler and more fun. The release states that their normal exercise routine becomes monotonous and uninteresting. A combination of music with dance improves mood and stimulates cognition. It also leads to more social interaction which results in positive effects on one's mood, the study concludes.

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